a. In the past, in the design of drainage structures, it was considered sufficient to provide a waterway
opening of a certain area, based on an area formula (e.g. Talbot’s formula); also, in case the flow (Q) were
known, one could assume a velocity of flow (V) (usually taken as 10 feet per sec) and, thus, arrive at the
required area (A) of opening. Modern practice is to first calculate the drainage, or flow, then to design the
structure to accommodate the flow (Reference 6) using the principles of hydraulics.
b. Before deciding on the hydraulic capacity to be provided in a structure, it is advisable to make a thorough
search to determine what precipitation and stream flow records are available in the general region of the
project site. Where data and time are available, several methods of determining the required capacity
should be used, and their results compared before a decision is made. Extensive study and research are
in continuous progress by various public agencies in the field of flood runoff and waterway requirements,
and it is expected that much additional useful data will be developed.
c. These agencies are much better suited, both in full-time personnel in this specialized field and in access
to pertinent data as quickly as it becomes available, than are most railroads. Therefore, the needs of
railroad personnel dealing with drainage matters are best served by having at hand a list of agencies
through which they can obtain the latest information on the subject. In order to take full advantage of
this and to insure uniformity of design criteria on the individual railroad, it is advisable that all drainage
recommendations and supporting data should clear through a designated “drainage engineer” before
final decision.
d. A list of Federal and State agencies in the United States that are engaged in research, accumulation of
data, and the statistical analysis of precipitation and runoff is given below: